Japan Raises Visa Fees Fivefold to ¥15,000 Starting July 1

Japan’s government approved a historic visa fee increase on June 20, raising single-entry fees fivefold to ¥15,000 from ¥3,000 and multiple-entry fees to ¥30,000 from ¥6,000, effective July 1. This marks the first adjustment since 1978. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi cited inflation and yen depreciation as reasons. The hikes aim to align Japan’s fees with Group of Seven countries.

Why Japan Raised Visa Fees Now

The Japanese government cited inflation and exchange rate shifts over 48 years as justification for the increase. Foreign Minister Motegi stated the 1978 fee no longer reflected current economic conditions. The hikes bring Japan’s visa costs closer to levels charged by other wealthy nations in the G7.

What Travelers Will Pay Starting July

Single-entry visa fees jump from ¥3,000 (about $18 USD) to ¥15,000 (about $90 USD). Multiple-entry visas rise from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The changes take effect July 1, 2026. The government expects no immediate impact on tourism, according to Motegi’s statement.

Scale of the Fee Adjustment

This represents the first visa fee revision in nearly five decades. The 500% increase for single-entry visas is substantial, though Motegi said the government carefully considered various factors before deciding. The Cabinet order was formally approved and will take effect as scheduled.

Final Thoughts

Japan’s visa fee hike reflects decades of inflation and currency movement, bringing costs in line with other developed nations. Travelers planning trips to Japan after July 1 should budget an additional ¥12,000 for single-entry visas.

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